I like the idea of a GPS to record routes etc, but not very keen on the price or having something else to strap to my bars.
So is there an app/external add on that will make my phone into a 'proper' gps unit? All the mapping apps need a 3g signal to work so when you're in the wilds they become a bit iffy.
you certainly can with an android phone...
There's loads!
You just need one that downloads the maps to the phone first.
Often you have to pay for these.
Only downside is the battery life of the iPhone. With GPS logging on all the time, I only get about 2 hours max out of my battery. Sometimes less.
All the mapping apps need a 3g signal to work
No they don't.
[url= http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/motionx-gps/id299949744?mt=8 ]MotionX GPS (69p)[/url] for instance allows you to pre-load a map of an area while you are on wi-fi (for free) so you don't need a 3G signal.
Pricier apps like Memory Map and Viewranger let you load on OS maps too.
I got Memory Map Free then bought about 15 quids worth of mapping data. Works well and no need for 3G once you ve downloaded the maps at home on wifi.
Not sure if the free version of MM has disappeared though, couldn't find it in the app store when I looked on my iPad.
Memory map app works great
You can load maps onto,it from disc and don't need any 3G
I have some maps that may work
MMtracker lets you use all you old .QCT memory map OS maps files so you do not need a 3G signal.
That's exactly what I use my iPhone with Endomondo for, it's easy to upload route to mapping software to see where I've been and to create my own route maps. There are many alternatives.